FAQs

Who is in charge of the project?The City of Baltimore’s Department of Transportation is managing the project. To deliver the Harbor Point Connector Bridge within an accelerated schedule, a competitive contracting process called “design-build” was used. Through a competitive bid process, the City of Baltimore selected the Allan Myers/JMT Team as the design-build team.

What is a design-build?Design-build is a project delivery method by which both the engineering design services and the construction of a project are contracted by a single entity, known as the design-builder or design-build contractor. The contract is typically awarded by the project owner based on a determination that the contractor selected will provide “best value” to the project. Multiple factors are considered, including price, proposed technical solution, schedule, and contractor qualifications.

In a design-build procurement, the selected contractor may begin construction on the project before the design is complete, providing an opportunity for an accelerated schedule and best value.

What is the estimated construction cost and who is funding the project?The winning bid was $46.7M. A total of $10.4M of the cost of the bridge will be paid using tax increment financing from the Harbor Point development. The remainder of the project is funded by federal and local aid for transportation and utility projects.

What are the hours for construction during the week?Most of the construction activities will be performed during daytime work hours. Certain activities may require night work. This work would need prior approval by the City and proper public notification would be made.

What noise can neighbors expect to hear?Various construction activities will see a range of noise levels and types. The bridge construction will require the installation of steel piles which may result in hammering and/or pounding sounds. In addition, construction equipment has required backup alarms for the safety of the operators and the public. As a reminder, the majority of this work will be performed during the work day, limiting the impact to residents and visitors during nighttime hours.

What is the relationship of this project to other projects in the Harbor East/Harbor Point area?The Central Avenue Streetscape and Harbor Point Connector Bridge project is independent of other projects being constructed in the area. That said, close coordination is occurring between this project and the private development projects that are being constructed in the area.

When did construction begin on the Central Avenue Streetscape and Harbor Point Connector Bridge Project?Construction for the bridge portion of the design-build began in January, with Stage 2 of the Central Avenue streetscape improvements beginning in late 2017.

When will the construction be complete?The new Harbor Point Bridge is scheduled to be open in a limited way in the summer of 2018. The streetscape portion and final bridge construction of the project are expected to be delivered by the spring of 2019. All dates are subject to change based on weather conditions, etc.

How will traffic be affected?Temporary lane and road closures will occur throughout the construction period. Motorists traveling in this vicinity are encouraged to plan ahead and allow additional travel time. Signage will be posted to direct motorists, pedestrians and cyclists through the area. To view the most up-to-date road closure information, please visit our Traffic Advisories page by clicking here.

In addition, Lancaster Street between Central Avenue and Eden Street will be closed through the duration of the initial bridge construction. This closure is necessary for the construction of the new bridge to Harbor Point.

Will residential or business relocations be needed for the project?No relocations are necessary for this project. Access to businesses and residences will be maintained throughout the construction period. Coordination with adjacent property owners will be needed at times.

Should I anticipate temporary utility outages?Utilities may be interrupted during the construction period. The City will provide advance notification of any impacts to affected residents and/or businesses prior to any interruptions.